We are writing to follow up on recent events and extend our appreciation to the vast majority of students who continue to follow our COVID-19 protocols, which have allowed us to continue an in-person, residential Fall semester.  We are all undoubtedly feeling a sense of relief about the conclusion of our recent “Pause”, but must remember that our work to keep the Marist community safe continues.

With some four weeks left in the semester, it is understandable that many students are feeling “pandemic fatigue.”  We all are.  Despite this, we urge you to stay the course and remain vigilant. Our behaviors have a direct impact on the College’s ability to remain open for in-person classes. When we collectively adhere to the College’s standards, we are protecting each other and the opportunity to live and learn on campus.  

The region and the nation are still battling this pernicious virus. We need to be conscious of the fact that it is resurgent and redouble our efforts.  We are therefore announcing several important updates or reminders to our policies below: 

COVID-19 travel policies

With a recent uptick in COVID-19 cases throughout the region, students must refrain from unnecessary travel in or outside of the local community. Local essential travel, such as going to the grocery store, going to a doctor’s appointment, traveling to a place of employment, etc. is permitted. However, students should not be traveling to other colleges, visiting friends, or returning home. In the event of essential travel off campus, students must follow COVID-19 policies including wearing a mask, maintaining physical distancing, avoiding gatherings, and complying with New York Forward and any executive order guidance.

Limited social interactions

For public health reasons, students are encouraged to limit their interactions to their roommates or immediate housemates; close associates; or teammates, which are often referred to as “pods.”

COVID-19 testing

Since the start of our surveillance testing program in August, Marist has conducted more than 6,300 tests. Participation in this program is mandatory for all students, faculty, and staff to ensure continued monitoring of the health of our community. If called for testing, students must show up at the appointed time.  Failure to do so will be considered a breach of the Student Code of Conduct and may result in disciplinary action, up to and including suspension.  This program has been critical to our success and participation is not optional.  Additional information on this program can be found here.

As a reminder, all students must notify Marist Health Services of any off-campus COVID-19 testing (regardless of the reason for the test). Failure to disclose testing may result in disciplinary action.

COVID-19 Conduct Hotline

If any member of the Marist community observes a violation of the College’s COVID-19 health and safety policies, they are encouraged to call the COVID-19 Conduct Hotline: 575-MASK (6275).

Flu vaccine clinics

As you know, the College has implemented a mandatory flu vaccine requirement for all students and employees. On-campus vaccine clinics have been extended through November 18 on the following dates and will take place outside of Marian Hall between the hours of 11:00 am and 2:00 pm.

• October 28
• November 4
• November 11
• November 18

If your health insurance does not cover the cost of the vaccine, there will be a $10 charge billed by the Rite Aid Pharmacy Department.

End of the Fall Term

Given the extraordinary circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, the time between Fall and Spring term will be dramatically different from normal years. Due to this extended break, and for health and safety reasons, the College policy this year will require students to find alternative accommodations during the winter break. Exceptions to this policy will be granted on an extremely limited basis. Students who will not be returning to campus in the Spring semester will be required to move all of their belongings out of the residence halls prior to leaving for Thanksgiving break.

Enhanced Winter course opportunities

Marist will be offering additional courses at a discounted rate for the Winter Intersession. Students are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to stay on track or get ahead with coursework, save money, and allow for the flexibility to enhance their Marist experience. Tuition for the Winter 2021 Intercession is priced at $500 per credit and $1500 per course (a savings of nearly $700 per course). Offerings include History of Photography, Topics in Biology, World Religions, Fashion & Culture, and much more. Registration begins on Tuesday, November 10 and remains open through November 20.

We know that continued adherence to Marist’s health and safety guidelines takes great discipline and we appreciate our community’s effort to rise above these challenges together.

Thank you for continuing to “protect the pack.”

Sincerely,
Geoff Brackett, Executive Vice President
Thom Wermuth, Vice President for Academic Affairs
Deb DiCaprio, Vice President for Student